Marcus Freeman LB 6'1 239 Ohio St. 4.74

Freeman spent most of his true freshman season as a reserve and special teamer, only tallying four tackles. He injured his knee in the 2005 season opener and missed the entire season, redshirting in the process. He bounced back strong as a sophomore, finishing the season with 71 tackles, 2.5 for loss, one sacks, and two interceptions. Freeman had an excellent junior season, topping the century mark with 109 tackles, 9.5 for loss, and 1.5 sacks on the year. As a senior, he had 76 tackles, nine for loss, and 3.5 sacks on the season.

Strengths

Freeman is a versatile linebacker that could possibly play all three traditional linebacker positions in the NFL. He is an aggressive defender when the play is in front of him, and he attacks the action. He has the ability to play sideline to sideline, and has very good closing speed once he locks in on the ball carrier. Freeman packs a punch when he hits people, and is a very tough defender. He is also a good enough athlete to be able to drop into coverage and stay with his man.

Weaknesses

Freeman is a big hitter on the field, but that is when he has space to close on the action. He can be slow to disengage a block once the blocker gets a hold of him, and he must improve that no matter what spot he plays. He also is a tad undersized, standing at barely 6'1 tops.

Future

Freeman is a very good linebacker prospect that could fill a variety of roles for a team in the NFL. He is tough and physical, but is also a good athlete with good closing speed. He has been overshadowed by teammate James Laurinaitis but he should have a very good NFL career as well. Freeman had a solid showing at the combine, tying for the best bench press mark for LB’s with 30. He also had a decent 4.74 and very good shuttle and cone drills, showing his ability to change direction. There is some depth at the LB spot near the top that could push Freeman down a bit, but he would be a solid pick up in the third round.